Standing with Israel Today

How to help Israel at such a dark time.

We’ve been down this road before. For every exciting world event, there is always a uniquely “Jewish” impact.

The euphoria of the “Arab Spring” of 2011 is no exception. While the world watched and cheered as people rose up against dictators in Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Syria and other countries, newly-emboldened activists started cutting Egypt’s gas lines to Israel, cutting off energy supplies to the Jewish state.

Then on August 18, 2011, the terror escalated. Over a dozen terrorists, originally from Gaza, some wearing Egyptian army uniforms, walked past an Egyptian police checkpoint, entered Israel from Egypt and started murdering Israelis. (It seems their goal was to kidnap, echoing the 2006 kidnapping of 18-year-old Israeli Gilad Shalit, who is still in captivity.) Seven Israelis died in the attack.

Egypt and Gaza have exploded in anger at Israel. The proximate causes are the actions that Israel has taken to defend its citizens. (In the ensuing fight on the Egyptian border, three Egyptian police officers were killed, and in Israel’s subsequent bombing of terrorist sites in Gaza, according to Hamas, 10 terrorists and two innocent bystanders died.)

But the outpouring of fury speaks to a deeper, long-seated hatred of the Jewish state. (Egypt is, after all, the country where the smash hit “I Hate Israel” by Egyptian crooner Shaaban Abdel Rahim has been a favorite song for the past decade.) In Egypt, people have flocked to the center of Cairo to burn Israeli flags and shout for “death to Israel.” The Cabinet Committee that governs Egypt right now announced its intent to withdraw Egypt’s ambassador from Israel. And Egyptian presidential candidates are vying to outdo each other in condemning the Jewish state.

Meanwhile, Hamas has unleashed a barrage of attacks on Israeli cities from Gaza. Over 80 rockets from Gaza landed in Israel in the day after the attack on the Egyptian border. An Israeli toddler, a 9-year-old boy and others were injured when their house in the town of Ofakim was hit. Boys studying at a yeshiva in Ashdod were wounded when their school was hit. And 38-year-old Yossi Shoshan was killed in Be’er Sheva as he raced home to check on his pregnant wife, while that major Israeli city was deluged with rockets.

How to Help

This is such a dark time for Israel and its supporters. How shall we stand with Israel now? What can we do?

Here are seven ideas to connect with Israel today, both practically and spiritually. Try to focus on one suggestion each day, for a week of connection with the Jewish state.

Perform a mitzvah

There is a strong mystical belief in Judaism that we can elevate our state of national protection by performing Jewish commandments. Resolve to take on one additional mitzvah today. You might want to experiment with keeping kosher, or light Shabbat candles.

Study some Torah

Jews traditionally undertake to learn a portion of Torah in order to strengthen our connection. Make a decision today to read one extra Jewish-themed work this week, in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Israel, and in memory of those who have died in terror attacks.

Stay informed

Many news outlets try to compete by reporting news in sensationalist ways, which can make it hard to figure out what is really going on. Keep informed by including some Israeli news sources in your reading. (www.jpost.com, www.israel21c.org) Also, keep an eye out for unbalanced or distorted coverage through sites such as www.honestreporting.com .

Find a connection to Israel within yourself

Israel is such a diverse, exciting place, there is a way for everyone to connect. If you are an art aficionado, check out Israeli museums on the internet. For sports, start cheering for an Israeli team. With social networking sites, making connections with people in Israel is as easy as a mouse click, and can lead to rewarding, long-lasting friendships as well as a feeling of kinship with the Jewish state.

E-mail your political representative

Get to know the name and e-mail address of the politicians who represent you in your local and national politics. Contact them to tell you how you feel. If Israel is important to them, let them know. You don’t need to know all the ins and outs of pending legislation; just let your representative know that you care about the Jewish state.

Say a prayer

Jews have always turned to prayer in times of danger. You can recite prayers in your own words, or experiment with more formal prayers. (Many people recite Psalms in difficult times; Psalm 119 is one that many people recite specifically in times of risk.) Alternately, you can write your own prayer and have it placed in the Western Wall, the remnant of our ancient Temple in Jerusalem. It can be exciting to know that your own prayer is in such a sacred place.

Give of yourself

Donate your time to a Jewish cause. Contribute your efforts to help the Jewish community. Pledge tzedakah to a Jewish or Israeli charity to help make the world a better place. In Judaism, giving of ourselves to improve our community and our world is one of the most profound ways to connect. Particularly when we are worried about Israel, worried about our fellow Jews, this is a powerful way to introduce some light into the darkness of current events.

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About the Author

Yvette Alt Miller earned her B.A. at Harvard University. She completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Jewish Studies at Oxford University, and has a Ph.D. In International Relations from the London School of Economics. She lives with her family in Chicago, and has lectured internationally on Jewish topics. Her book Angels at the table: a Practical Guide to Celebrating Shabbat takes readers through the rituals of Shabbat and more, explaining the full beautiful spectrum of Jewish traditions with warmth and humor. It has been praised as "life-changing", a modern classic, and used in classes and discussion groups around the world.

Visitor Comments: 18

(15)
rahul mehta,
January 10, 2012 1:22 PM

We support israel

We in india have been going through similar terrorism acts like Israel and fully support your stand. We need to stop these terrorists from further hurting our people in any way possible. They are worse than animals. laughing and dancing when innocent women and children, this is disgusting.

(14)
John McMahon,
August 23, 2011 2:56 PM

Christians support Israel.

As a Christian, I know that we have a deep respect for The Holy Land and pray that God will protect Israel from all serious harm. This is mentioned in the bible many times. Jerusalem is His precious and eternal city and hell will never prevail against it. I pray that the messiah will come soon and free, not only Israel, but the world from the Islamic terror and evil which appears to be accelerating.

(13)
Vadim,
August 23, 2011 7:38 AM

One more way to help

You left out one more way to help - choose to buy Israel's products. Your money will help keep another person working and earning in Israel.

(12)
Ruthie,
August 22, 2011 6:22 AM

make aliyah

Wheneve a Jewish life is snuffed out by a terrorist act the only answer is to infuse our homeland with another one, ten, hundred, thousand Jewish lives. The fight against terror is a physical one. Although we are a fraction of the world's population, we are the majority of Israel's population. Let's all work harder to keep it that way. Connect to Israel by connecting to Israel. Literally. Come Home. We need you. All of you.

(11)
Anonymous,
August 22, 2011 4:14 AM

Jewish Unity--The Magical Connection

Well there is no magical connection because G-d is not a magician. But if one has ever had to depend on G-d and G-d alone for their help, one would learn pretty quickly how a prayer can keep one safe from harm. Reading and reciting Psalms, praying, giving charity and performing any type of mitzvah does make a difference in not just the spiritual but the physical realm. Just because one cannot see the help G-d sends with their natural eyes, does not mean that help was not sent by G-d at your request. Sometimes you just don't always recognize right away the help that was sent. But the more you look for the movement of G-d, the more you can become accustomed to seeing the unseen miracles of G-d, the protection provided to the Jewish people. Maybe when you ask yourself what help is some of the things mentioned in this article, you might want to keep in mind G-d's interpretation of who the Jewish people are versus some of the various other interpretations out there. I certainly have more confidence in G-d helping Israel right now than any of the policitians now in office. Of course, to me, what is the point in being Jewish if you don't want the G-d of the Jews or to believe in how G-d said things work in this world and just how G-d manages the running of this world? What is the point of being Jewish if you don't want to pray and believe in the Shema? Doesn't it say to pray for the peace of Jerusalem? So I would think Jews would want to at least come together in unity to at least do that much. If Jews cannot even come together to pray in unity for that, then maybe that is one reason why so many Jews cannot see the unseen movements of G-d and are searching for answers to their problems elsewhere.

Chedvah Chaimowitz,
August 23, 2011 7:28 AM

You're missing something

Well said, but let's not forget the idiom that "G-d helps those that help themselves". Sometimes even those that are familiar with the movements may sometimes miss a step. I'm speaking from experience. It's not just peace for Jerusalem that we ask for, it's to make Jerusalem whole. I know that we all want the same thing, I really don't want anything to come between Jews. Nothing but pain will result from that. There should never be anger involved, just an understanding that when something needs to be said or done, G-d will make sure that there are opportunities for it to happen. He will make His will be known. Shalom.

(10)
Hildla Krakows,
August 22, 2011 1:16 AM

Taking responsibility

Thanks for info and the 7 ideas. I feel I'm not doing enough,and it's frustrating. My friend Daniel told me about Psalm 119, so I know it's important. Much of what you recommend is part of my daily routine. I like to stay up to date on what's happening in Israel, but it's sometimes difficult. Time is an issue and I always feel like there's information I'm missing. I can't help but feel that if Egypt is having such a hard time taking care of it's borders, maybe we can lighten the load by taking back the Sinai Peninsula. If Egypt decides that they're no friends of ours, do we get it back? I understand that Egypt is in an awkward position, playing monkey in the middle, and their country is in such turmoil, but I hope they will learn to protect their borders. In war, friendly fire is always a risk. When you see that you're vulnerable, you do what you have to do to protect yourself, you can't leave yourself exposed. You also have to take responsibility for your mistakes. I'm glad that Egypt is finally dealing with the pipeline issue, but if they had been more on top of the situation, they may have avoided the loss of their soldiers. How easy it is to blame Israel for the loss. People will put whatever spin on events that suit their agendas. As to having to be in Israel in order to perform mitzvot, G-d is everywhere and as long as Jerusalem is in your heart, you're in the right place. As far as stopping bullets Wayne, I don't think that's beyond the Creator of the universe. I think we're going to witness some pretty amazing miracles in the near future. So print out those 7 ideas and live by them. If we do ours, G-d will fight for us. I believe.

(9)
Alan R Naftalis,
August 21, 2011 8:23 PM

Only direct action will help

While praying for the safety of Israel is always a fine thing to do, direct action by Israel's supporters is necessary. Write letters to the editor, especially if editorials or other letter writers lay blame for the current violence on Israel. Visit news websites like the Washington Post. NY Times, etc and post pro-Israeli comments on articles regarding this horror and respond to those who attack Israel there especially those who call it racist, say it engages in ethnic cleansing, is not a legitimate state. We know from our history this is not political rhetoric on their part but masked anti-Semitism. Speak out at public forums. Complain to sponsoring groups when hate/anti-Israeli forums or programs are being sponsored. If it is university where you are an alumnus, make that fact known in emails to the university president. This is only a small sampling of actions you can take to combat the smear campaign against Israel, especially now in light of the impending UN resolution. Do NOT write about our Biblical right to the land or defend Israel's right to exist, we should take the position that Israel is as legitimate as any other nation and does not have to justify its existence (tell me any other nation which is attacked in this way), but rather indicate the reality of the terror, wars, economic boycotts and the like it has has to face. Above all write your Congressman & Senator, let them know that in America there is strong support for Israel.

(8)
Cathy,
August 21, 2011 8:13 PM

Supporting Judaism and Israel

I think that I am going to support Judaism and Israel by joining my local synagogue in September. I have not decided if I will remain where I am living now or not, but wherever I am by Rosh Hashanah this year is where I will join the local synagogue. That way I feel that I will be ultimately supporting all the things "jewish".

(7)
Josef F,
August 21, 2011 6:06 PM

Buy Israeli products

I recently bought an Israeli made sofa bed. Israel makes a lot of different consumer products. They are made very well. Womans Jewelry,furniture skin products from the dead sea food etc.We should support a strong Israeli economy.Buy Israel.

ayla,
August 22, 2011 5:24 AM

Good product made in Israel

A hair product I love that is made in Israel, by Israeli Jews, is Moroccanoil. It's a bit expensive, but so great. I too look for products to buy from Israel... it all helps.

(6)
Wayne,
August 21, 2011 5:30 PM

How will that help?

About half the things listed here will make ourselves feel good but do absolutely nothing for the people of Israel who are at risk of death just for being there. There is no magical connection causing bullets to stop in mid-air in Israel just because we do something nice for someone in the USA.

Alexander Huzau,
August 21, 2011 10:15 PM

A better border security

Since Israel has not thousands of miles of borders to keep, but has all the required resources to do this, let's make at last a leakproof border..!

(5)
Anonymous,
August 21, 2011 4:28 PM

TWEET ABOUT THE ROCKET ATTACKS AND THE PEOPLE WHO ARE SUFFERING IN ISRAEL ALL THE TIME!!!!!
the number of dead the kids crying in the shalter that is the best help you can give israel!!!
tell your friends to do the same!!!

(4)
Yocheved Golani,
August 21, 2011 4:25 PM

YOU and Every Jew Should be Standing IN Israel

HaShem patiently teaches us that as the shechina moves on, Jew-hatred rises. There is only one solution: HaShem's. Jews are supposed to live in the Holy Land. Once all of us are in GOD's gift to us, Mashiach MUST arrive, violence and every form of misery ends.
Connect to Israel, do mitzvot in Israel, celebrate chagim and Shabbatot in Israel, pray in Israel and study Torah in Israel. Not one of these activities are supposed to be done outside eretz haKodesh. Live life where HaShem wants you to be.

(3)
Ben K,
August 21, 2011 2:42 PM

time for a pro-Israel large rally?

I recall under President Bush when it looked like heavy pressure was going to bear on Israel as it was fighting the terrorists in the West Bank during the second intifada when over 100,000 people crowded into Washington to send a message. Is it time after 2 years of Obama lecturing and berating Israel over his term and as the PLO is planning to approach the UN in September and bypass Oslo process negotiations with Israel to have a large rally to show large numbers of voters stand with Israel? The clear mighty cry is clearly How can the PA not Be Taken to Taks for Uniting with Hamas in government even as Hamas fire rockets and harbor terrorists that attack Israel, and Abbas was reportedly Paying Palestinian Terrorists in Israeli jails monthly stipends, and Pressuring Israel to retreat and kick out hunderds of thousands of Jews from their homes and endangering Jews in Jerusalem and rest of Israel. All to Placate the COmrades in government and in Support of Terrorists!

(2)
Binyamink,
August 21, 2011 2:33 PM

regarding Psalms

Regarding Pslams, while Pslams 119 is as all Psalms of great value it is common to say Psalms 121 but I don't think 119 is the one people normally say when praying for help.

I just got married and have an important question: Can we eat rice on Passover? My wife grew up eating it, and I did not. Is this just a matter of family tradition?

The Aish Rabbi Replies:

The Torah instructs a Jew not to eat (or even possess) chametz all seven days of Passover (Exodus 13:3). "Chametz" is defined as any of the five grains (wheat, spelt, barley, oats, and rye) that came into contact with water for more than 18 minutes. Chametz is a serious Torah prohibition, and for that reason we take extra protective measures on Passover to prevent any mistakes.

Hence the category of food called "kitniyot" (sometimes referred to generically as "legumes"). This includes rice, corn, soy beans, string beans, peas, lentils, peanuts, mustard, sesame seeds and poppy seeds. Even though kitniyot cannot technically become chametz, Ashkenazi Jews do not eat them on Passover. Why?

Products of kitniyot often appear like chametz products. For example, it can be hard to distinguish between rice flour (kitniyot) and wheat flour (chametz). Also, chametz grains may become inadvertently mixed together with kitniyot. Therefore, to prevent confusion, all kitniyot were prohibited.

In Jewish law, there is one important distinction between chametz and kitniyot. During Passover, it is forbidden to even have chametz in one's possession (hence the custom of "selling chametz"). Whereas it is permitted to own kitniyot during Passover and even to use it - not for eating - but for things like baby powder which contains cornstarch. Similarly, someone who is sick is allowed to take medicine containing kitniyot.

What about derivatives of kitniyot - e.g. corn oil, peanut oil, etc? This is a difference of opinion. Many will use kitniyot-based oils on Passover, while others are strict and only use olive or walnut oil.

Finally, there is one product called "quinoa" (pronounced "ken-wah" or "kin-o-ah") that is permitted on Passover even for Ashkenazim. Although it resembles a grain, it is technically a grass, and was never included in the prohibition against kitniyot. It is prepared like rice and has a very high protein content. (It's excellent in "cholent" stew!) In the United States and elsewhere, mainstream kosher supervision agencies certify it "Kosher for Passover" -- look for the label.

Interestingly, the Sefardi Jewish community does not have a prohibition against kitniyot. This creates the strange situation, for example, where one family could be eating rice on Passover - when their neighbors will not. So am I going to guess here that you are Ashkenazi and your wife is Sefardi. Am I right?

Yahrtzeit of Rabbi Moses ben Nachman (1194-1270), known as Nachmanides, and by the acronym of his name, Ramban. Born in Spain, he was a physician by trade, but was best-known for authoring brilliant commentaries on the Bible, Talmud, and philosophy. In 1263, King James of Spain authorized a disputation (religious debate) between Nachmanides and a Jewish convert to Christianity, Pablo Christiani. Nachmanides reluctantly agreed to take part, only after being assured by the king that he would have full freedom of expression. Nachmanides won the debate, which earned the king's respect and a prize of 300 gold coins. But this incensed the Church: Nachmanides was charged with blasphemy and he was forced to flee Spain. So at age 72, Nachmanides moved to Jerusalem. He was struck by the desolation in the Holy City -- there were so few Jews that he could not even find a minyan to pray. Nachmanides immediately set about rebuilding the Jewish community. The Ramban Synagogue stands today in Jerusalem's Old City, a living testimony to his efforts.

It's easy to be intimidated by mean people. See through their mask. Underneath is an insecure and unhappy person. They are alienated from others because they are alienated from themselves.

Have compassion for them. Not pity, not condemning, not fear, but compassion. Feel for their suffering. Identify with their core humanity. You might be able to influence them for the good. You might not. Either way your compassion frees you from their destructiveness. And if you would like to help them change, compassion gives you a chance to succeed.

It is the nature of a person to be influenced by his fellows and comrades (Rambam, Hil. De'os 6:1).

We can never escape the influence of our environment. Our life-style impacts upon us and, as if by osmosis, penetrates our skin and becomes part of us.

Our environment today is thoroughly computerized. Computer intelligence is no longer a science-fiction fantasy, but an everyday occurrence. Some computers can even carry out complete interviews. The computer asks questions, receives answers, interprets these answers, and uses its newly acquired information to ask new questions.

Still, while computers may be able to think, they cannot feel. The uniqueness of human beings is therefore no longer in their intellect, but in their emotions.

We must be extremely careful not to allow ourselves to become human computers that are devoid of feelings. Our culture is in danger of losing this essential aspect of humanity, remaining only with intellect. Because we communicate so much with unfeeling computers, we are in danger of becoming disconnected from our own feelings and oblivious to the feelings of others.

As we check in at our jobs, and the computer on our desk greets us with, "Good morning, Mr. Smith. Today is Wednesday, and here is the agenda for today," let us remember that this machine may indeed be brilliant, but it cannot laugh or cry. It cannot be happy if we succeed, or sad if we fail.

Today I shall...

try to remain a human being in every way - by keeping in touch with my own feelings and being sensitive to the feelings of others.

With stories and insights,
Rabbi Twerski's new book Twerski on Machzor makes Rosh Hashanah prayers more meaningful. Click here to order...